Ep 1. The Need for Speed

Design Squad is an educational television series that aims to inspire kids to become innovators and engineers. The show follows a group of talented teenagers as they take on a series of design challenges, showing the audience how science, technology, engineering, and math can be used to solve real-world problems.

In season 1 episode 1, titled "The Need for Speed," the Design Squad is tasked with building the fastest water balloon launcher they can. In this episode, the audience is introduced to the six members of the Design Squad: Nate, Deysi, Eli, Lauryn, Aarti, and Jackie. Each of them has a different background in engineering and brings a unique perspective to the team.

The challenge is introduced by the host, Nate Ball, who explains that the squad must build a device that can launch a water balloon as far as possible. To make it more challenging, they can only use the materials provided in a kit. The squad immediately begins brainstorming and constructing different designs, each of them hoping to create the best launcher.

Throughout the episode, there are several side segments that give the audience a behind-the-scenes look at how the squad works together. Viewers learn about the design process, including sketching, prototyping, and testing. They also see how the squad uses basic principles of physics and engineering to improve their designs, such as using levers and pulleys to increase the force of the launcher.

As the deadline approaches, the teams become more competitive and focused. They realize that they need to work together and communicate effectively to create the best design possible. After testing each launcher, the squad determines which one is the most successful based on the distance the water balloon travels.

Throughout the episode, the audience is also introduced to the concept of engineering and how it can be applied in everyday life. The hosts explain how engineers use the principles of science and math to solve problems and create new technologies. They encourage kids to explore their own interests in engineering and to try building things on their own.

Overall, season 1 episode 1 of Design Squad is an exciting, educational introduction to the world of engineering. Viewers are introduced to a diverse group of teenagers who are passionate about using their skills to create innovative solutions to real-world problems. The episode is engaging, informative, and sure to inspire kids to get creative and start designing.